La Méridionale unveils new Marseille-Tanger Med ferry service with modern comforts and sustainability

La Méridionale marked the inaugural voyage of its newly refurbished ferry, the Massalia, at Tanger-Med port on July 2, 2025.

Designed to cater to the bustling Marseille-Tanger Med route, the Massalia seamlessly combines passenger and freight services. With a capacity to accommodate 1,200 passengers and nearly 500 vehicles, the vessel also offers 2,370 linear meters of rolling freight space to meet the growing demand for cross-Mediterranean transport.

Modern amenities for a seamless journey

The Massalia is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities to ensure comfort on long-haul journeys. Passengers can enjoy family cabins, optimized rest areas, a dormitory section with 38 beds, two movie theaters, a prayer room, and multiple restaurant spaces.

The ferry also features improved working conditions for crew members, reflecting La Méridionale’s commitment to ensuring both passenger and staff satisfaction.

Supporting Morocco’s summer travel surge

The deployment of the Massalia aligns with Operation Marhaba 2025, an initiative designed to facilitate the summer travel season for millions of Moroccans living abroad who return home each year. The vessel enhances La Méridionale’s service offerings, providing reliable and comfortable crossings during the busy summer months.

A commitment to sustainability

At the launch ceremony, La Méridionale’s president, Maria Harti, emphasized the company’s dedication to environmentally responsible maritime transport. "The Massalia represents more than just a new ship in our fleet," Harti noted. "It symbolizes our ambition to offer reliable, comfortable, and sustainable maritime services."

The ferry incorporates advanced propulsion technologies and emission treatment systems, significantly reducing its environmental impact. Harti highlighted that every detail of the vessel was designed to deliver serene and hospitable experiences for travelers, ensuring passenger well-being remains a top priority.

Expanding Europe-North Africa connectivity

The launch of the Massalia further strengthens La Méridionale’s role in connecting Europe and North Africa. By offering essential transportation for both passengers and commercial cargo, the ferry contributes to deepening ties across the Mediterranean, reinforcing the route’s importance in regional mobility and trade.